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\t\t\t\t\t\t\tA welcome to the islands of Guadeloupe usually includes a warm greeting with a glass of Ti-punch and the sound of local Biguine music. The islands described in this section consist of Grande Terre, Basse Terre, Marie Galante, Les Saintes, la Désirade. <\/p>\n
\t\t\t\t\t\t\tEach island has its own culture and history to be explored through the many museums, activities, festivals and musical performances. But when it comes to the unsurpassable natural beauty, the islands all link to form an incredible mangrove swamp and lush rain forest. The turquoise sea and white sand beaches invite you to linger or participate in the many water sports available. With a variety of accommodations at your disposal, wonderful shopping opportunities, delicious local cooking and an exciting nightlife, Guadeloupe is sure to be one of your most memorable holidays ever.<\/p><\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n
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\t\t\t\t\t\t\tLocal rum<\/b> is used to prepare delicious cocktails, favourites being the Ti-Punch and Shrubb. Guadeloupean coffee<\/b> is among the best in the world, as are the vanilla pods<\/b> grown in Deshaies. Delicious preserves<\/b> are made from the many local fruits and vegetables. Every August, Guadeloupe hosts a Fête des Cuisinières<\/b>.<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n
\t\t\t\t\t\t\tThe islands have a thriving music industry and claim fame to several genres originating from this part of the world. One of these is Zouk, a folk music style<\/b> started in Martinique and Guadeloupe. Gwo ka<\/b> is a family of hand drums used to create seven basic rhythms, and multiple variations on each. Gwo ka singing is typically guttural, nasal and rough, and is accompanied by uplifting and complex harmonies and melodies. Another music style, called Biguine<\/b>, created here is know for its hip-swaying dance.<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n
\t\t\t\t\t\t\tThe British attempted another invasion in 1794 but were defeated by Victor Hugues, who freed and armed the Guadeloupean slaves. Following this uprising, a reign of terror ensued, resulting in many deaths. The next years saw a continuous power struggle over the islands; slavery was reinstated, the French regaining power and slavery finally abolished for good in 1848. Labourers from a French colony in India were brought in to work the land. The political atmosphere still remains tense at times.<\/p><\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n
\t\t\t\t\t\t\tThe green<\/b> (nature) section concentrates on the wonderful hiking trails<\/b> that take you through canyons, rainforests, waterfalls and botanical gardens, or even up a volcanic summit. In some cases, these can also be explored on horseback rides<\/b>. Golfers will enjoy the popular international 18-hole Saint François Golf Course<\/b>.<\/p>\n
\t\t\t\t\t\t\tFavourite sports by the natives include cycle races<\/b> and the annual oxen pull races<\/b> organized by the farmers.<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n
\t\t\t\t\t\t\tMost major credit cards and traveller's cheques are accepted almost everywhere. Smaller shops may only accept cash so always carry a bit with you.<\/p><\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n
\t\t\t\t\t\t\tFor monthly average temperatures please refer to your destination of choice.<\/p><\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n
\t\t\t\t\t\t\tThere are no required vaccines to enter the country, unless you are arriving from a yellow fever affected destination. The following vaccines are recommended for any tropical destination: hepatitis A and B, rabies, typhoid, tetanus and yellow fever.<\/p><\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n
\t\t\t\t\t\t\tTake advantage of the safety deposit boxes provided by the hotels, do not leave valuables unattended in public and carry your wallet and camera discreetly. Also make sure to lock your hotel room and rental car. Don't wander alone at night on the streets.<\/p><\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n
\t\t\t\t\t\t\tThe departure tax, required on scheduled flights, is already included in the airfare.<\/p><\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n
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